The countdown to the biggest football tournament ever staged in Australia – the AFC Asian Cup – has begun with one year to go to the tournament kick off.

Minister for Sport, Peter Dutton, has joined with organisers to urge all Australians to support the nation’s efforts to deliver a world-class event.

Organisers today celebrated the countdown with an event in Melbourne featuring Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou and captain Lucas Neill with other events scheduled across the host cities and at A-League games in Brisbane, Sydney and Newcastle.

“Australia is one of the most multicultural nations, and for the first time we are hosting the top 16 teams from Asia,” Mr Dutton said.

“We want to give the warmest of welcomes to all of Asia’s top teams, and deliver a tournament that celebrates Asia’s rich football culture.”

The Asian Cup will take place from January 9-31, 2015.

“It will be a summer festival of football never to forget – 32 matches in 23 days across our five host cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Newcastle,” Mr Dutton said.

“And we want all Australians to give our visitors a uniquely Australian welcome and a fantastic Australian experience.”